Resetting the government procurement system
Government procurement in New Zealand is operating in a complex environment.
We’re being asked to deliver more than just value for money – but also value for people, communities and the planet. Our procurement system needs to reset to achieve these goals.
“We have an opportunity to reshape the government procurement system, to create value for all New Zealanders. As a system we need to become more agile and future-focused. We all have a part to play in this.”
Karen Dawson Group General Manager Commercial Operations, Ministry of Social Development
We’ve been talking to agencies and other stakeholders about how we can shift the culture of government procurement from focusing on compliance and price to outcomes that benefit New Zealand.
Three key themes have emerged from our conversations with agencies and other stakeholders.
Data and transparency
We will work towards a data system that makes information readily available and enables analytics and insights. With good data, we can make better decisions, prove that outcomes are (or are not) being met, and measure system-wide performance.
Working together as one
A well-connected procurement system has agencies working as one government – collaborating effectively, building healthy supply markets and having productive relationships with suppliers. It delivers more tangible benefits to New Zealand that are possible by agencies acting alone.
Unlocking value
We need to make business-friendly procurement practices the norm. Technology needs to make things easier and our people need to understand business need and market capability, be able to engage on outcomes and shape markets in the changing environment.
In coming weeks we'll be hosting online ‘town hall’ sessions for agency procurement teams to learn more about how we want to reset the government procurement system. Invitations to follow!